Rewilding of Moose in Colorado is not aided by Elk Hunters who occasionally shoot Moose thinking they are Elk............We applaud Col. Parks and Wildlife for their Moose and Lynx restoration efforts over the past number of years and hope that this type forward thinking will one day lead to Wolves recolonizing the State

Wildlife Officials don't like Elk hunters targeting Moose

 

ARVADA - In the last five years, Colorado's Moose population has nearly doubled thanks to efforts put forth by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. However, wildlife workers fear their efforts might be at risk due to hunters who are mistaking the animals for Elk.

Halfway through this year's fall rifle season, officials say 11 moose have been accidentally killed by Elk hunters. In 2010, only 14 Moose were killed the entire year.
"We put more than 300,000 big game hunters in the field in Colorado every year, so when you talk about 10 mistakes or 14 mistakes it's a very low percentage. The problem is when you put that against a small population that we're trying to re-establish, like Moose," said Randy Hampton, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
There are only 1,700 Moose statewide so even the tiniest number is considered serious. This year, 175 Moose hunting permits were issued, compared to 214,000 Elk hunting licenses.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is warning Elk Hunters to pay attention to what animal they're targeting.
"We believe you should be able to tell the difference between an Elk and a Moose. Absolutely you should be able to tell the difference," Hampton said.
Anyone who kills a Moose in Colorado without reporting it could face a $20,000 fine, possibly jail time.
"If you make a mistake, fess up to it. Because we can work with you," Hampton said.
Better yet, Colorado Parks & Wildlife says if you don't recognize the animal, don't risk it.
You can apply for a Moose hunting permit in Colorado. If you're approved, you can only kill one Moose in the state during your lifetime.